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The Integration of Mangrove and Shrimp Farming

A Case Study on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia

Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, Auburn University

Document format: pdf

Publisher: World Bank, NACA, WWF and FAO Consortium Program on Shrimp Farming and the Environment

Creation date: 2002

Shrimp aquaculture has been accused of threatening mangrove forests worldwide. In response, the shrimp industry is developing the concept of integrated mangrove–shrimp farm systems. Mangrove and shrimp ponds are known to have mutually supportive functions. Mangrove wetlands can treat effluents from shrimp ponds effectively by removing suspended solids and nutrients. This activity can be expected, in turn, to enhance mangrove productivity. This report describes an integrated mangrove wetland–shrimp farm operating in Colombia since 1996. At this site, shrimp farm effluent is recirculated through an 120 ha mangrove area. Suspended solids are considerably reduced in the effluent, and nutrient concentrations in the adjacent lagoon decrease. Mangrove growth and regeneration in the biofilter are very high, but nutrient cycling in the biofilter is poorly understood. Moreover, the long-term impact of effluents on mangrove ecosystem has to be assessed. This case provides a positive example of responsible aquaculture development in coastal areas, but at the same time reveals the need for further research to develop sustainable practices within the shrimp industry.

Key Words: Shrimp • Colombia • Management Practices • Environmental Management • Mangrove • Effluent • NACA • World Bank • Case Study • WWF • FAO